The epic film Ben-Hur was the most expensive ever made at the time, with sets the largest yet built for a movie. The films nine-minute chariot race is the most famous sequences in cinema history. The score is the longest ever composed for a motion picture.

Actress Mary Cathleen Collins, better known as Bo Derek received a Golden Globe nomination for new star of the year for her role as Jenny Hanley in the 1979 comedy film 10. She makes an occasional film, television or documentary appearance today. In 2006, Bo Derek was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts by President George W. Bush, serving on the Operations Committee.